Adrian, TX

Adrian, Texas is the geometrical "Midpoint" of Historic Route 66" with 1139 miles to Chicago and 1139 miles to Los Angeles.The town's motto is "When you are here, you're halfway there." Gas stations, cafes, mechanic shops and hotels were built along the road. The current Interstate 40 bypasses Adrian, diverting traffic around the town. However, travelers who know the area, always make it a point to stop in Adrian to take photos at the Midpoint sign and markings, plus stop to enjoy the delicious hamburgers and ugly crust pies served up at the Mid-Point Cafe. Adrian has a wonderful school system. It is the center of most activity in town.

History

Adrian began in 1900 when the Rock Island Railroad survey marked the site as a future station and shipping point. Settlement of the area was slow until the railroad was completed into town in 1908.The railroad ran 22 miles south of Tascosa through the Oldham County communities of Adrian, Landergin, Ontario, Vega and Wildorado. In 1908, Adrian was the end of the line for the Rock Island Railroad, so the train had to turn around in Vega and back into Adrian. By 1910, the railroad had extended to Tucumcari, NM.

The railroad ran along the Ozark Trail, which later became Route 66. Route 66 was heavily traveled and provided an economic boon for the town.

The Giles Hotel was a famous landmark of early Adrian, which later became the Adrian Mercantile and the Adrian Community Center.